Here's What Veneers Can Do for You

When it comes to improving your smile, it seems like dental implants get all the love these days. Implants are amazing – there is a reason Dr. Mark Kramer offers single-placed implants and technologically advanced treatments like TeethXpress – but they are only necessary for people with missing or severely damaged teeth. So, what about the people who just don’t like the look of their teeth? 

For these people there are veneers, the Swiss Army knife of cosmetic treatments. In 2015’s State of the Industry survey by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, veneers were the third most popular treatment for cosmetic dentists nationwide, and are the most popular treatment at 22% of cosmetic practices. When you learn more about veneers, it’s easy to see why so many people are opting for them. 

Looking to upgrade your smile? If so, make an appointment with the team at Mark Kramer, DDS in Tustin, California. Dr. Kramer and his team pride themselves on their patient-centric focus and the exceptional results their patients see. In this blog, Dr. Kramer discusses veneer basics, the benefits of veneers, the advantages of porcelain veneers, and how veneers are placed. 

What are veneers?

Dental veneers are wafer-thin, custom-made shells that are attached to the front of your teeth to improve their appearance and hide imperfections. Veneers are semi-permanent and can be used to cover a single imperfection or create symmetry by placing 6 to 8 of them. 

Benefits

Veneers are so popular because they can solve many different cosmetic issues, including: 

• Cracked, chipped, or broken teeth
• Stains that won’t disappear with professional whitening treatments
• Teeth that are too large or too small
• Widely spaced teeth
• Crooked or crowded teeth
• Misshapen teeth

Veneers are also popular because they are minimally invasive and offer a quick solution to long-standing aesthetic concerns. 

What are veneers made of? 

Veneers can be made of either resin or porcelain. Dr. Kramer prefers porcelain because of the following benefits: 

• Strong and long-lasting
• Natural-looking surface
• Less tooth enamel needed to be placed
• Don’t stain easily

Porcelain veneers are typically more expensive than resin but can last 10 to 15 years, whereas resin veneers typically need replacement after five to seven years. Porcelain veneers are also more easily matched to your natural tooth color and generally look more like actual teeth.

Getting veneers 

You’ll start with a consultation with Dr. Kramer so that he can get an idea of exactly what you want. He’ll also perform a quick exam to make sure you’re a good candidate for veneers. If you have tooth decay or gum disease, your teeth may not be suitable. 

Once everything is decided, you’ll come back for another appointment. Dr. Kramer will remove a very thin layer of enamel, providing the eventual landing spot for the veneers. He’ll then take an impression of your teeth that will be sent to a trusted lab for custom-fit veneer fabrication. You’ll wear temporary veneers until your new ones come in. Once they arrive, Dr. Kramer will be able to bond your new veneers to your teeth, giving you a perfect smile. 

To learn more about veneers and if they can help improve your smile, book an appointment online or over the phone with Mark Kramer, DDS today.